ES2625802T3 - Pressure response ejection lock with tank - Google Patents

Abstract

Locking mechanism (24) for releasably retaining a first structure (40) relative to a second structure (48), the locking mechanism comprising: a box (62) that connects to at least a first structure (38) already a second structure (40); a latch (60) releasably arranged in the box; a part of a latch adjacent to a part of the other first structure and a second structure to prevent displacement of the first structure of a second structure; a pressure response device (66) to detect a decrease in pressure on one side of the panel (40); a latch coupling device (76) coupled to the pressure response device and which can be moved in response to the activation of the pressure response device; and a receiver structure (78) on the latch to engage at least a part of the latch coupling device to prevent the moveable movement of the latch before activation of the pressure response device.

Description

DESCRIPTION

Pressure response ejection block with deposit 5 BACKGROUND

[0001] This description generally refers to the field of locking mechanisms and

particularly to a locking mechanism used in an aircraft. More particularly, the present description refers to a locking mechanism that functions in response to a pressure change on at least one side of

10 a barrier in an aircraft to allow a panel associated with the barrier to be released after a series or range of given pressure conditions.

[0002] As a review, a variety of locking mechanisms have been developed to keep panels, doors and other structures in a closed position. The reference to panels, doors and other structures is

15 refers to the use of locking mechanisms to retain a first body, such as a panel relative to a second body, such as a frame. With respect to the example of the panels, a panel includes a part that can be hinged in a rotatable or movable manner retained in a corresponding structure such as a frame. The panel serves to close or cover at least a portion of an opening defined by the frame for a variety of purposes, including providing a barrier to prevent passage through the opening.

twenty

[0003] A variety of locking mechanisms have been developed to facilitate movement or

"expulsion" of a panel in relation to the frame. Such expulsion blocking mechanisms have been developed by Hartwell Corporation, assignee of the present description, to facilitate the decoupling of a panel from a frame or other structure under a series or range of "expulsion" conditions. For example, if a differential of

25 Pressing on opposite sides of a barrier or within an area at least partially housed or contained by the panel, the pressure differential will increase to a point where the panel can be forcibly removed, decoupled or "ejected" from the frame by forces associated with the pressure differential. Under these conditions, it is desirable to set the ejection force to a desired level or range so that premature decoupling of the primary structure panel does not occur. In this situation, the ejection load level 30 can be set so that a predetermined pressure differential uncouples the panel from the primary structure to protect and preserve the integrity of the frame and any related structure and device.

[0004] In some situations, it would be desirable to keep a panel in a closed position below a level or

range of pressure conditions and release the panel under a second range or set of conditions. Said level or

35 range may or may not overlap, or they may be different ranges or, in fact, points. The panel in said situation is generally in an environment where the pressure on each side of the panel is generally equalized. The panel may include a hermetic closure structure to prevent unwanted or abrupt passage of air through it. However, the pressure on each side of the panel is generally the same.

40 [0005] An example of the use of such a panel in a well-known environment is the use of a panel in a

pressurized cabin like that of an aircraft. The panel is used as a barrier to separate the flight crew, passengers and / or cargo in different areas. Such a panel may be used between the flight deck and the passenger compartment, in addition to, and perhaps, between the passenger compartment and the corresponding storage area that is not occupied by passengers. In the situation in which the panel is used in an aircraft in which the cabin is pressurized, it may be desirable to keep the panel in a closed position for many situations, but to allow the panel to open when the pressure differential between the two compartments change Said pressure differential can occur in the case of booth pressure booth in the cargo compartment due to a leak or other pressure loss. Under these circumstances, it may be desirable to allow cabin pressure to be generally equalized to avoid or minimize damage that may result from the 50-pressure differential.

[0006] Similarly, in a situation where a panel is positioned between the cockpit and the

passengers, it may be desirable to release the panel and equalize the pressure between the cockpit and the passenger area. In this situation in which the panel is positioned between the cockpit and the passenger area, it can be

It is desirable to allow the panel to disengage, instead of having a door that fails structurally as a result of uneven pressure differentials.

[0007] For example, the panel to the flight deck is generally kept in a closed and locked position during the flight to maintain the privacy and security of the flight crew. This prevents the passage

of passengers or terrorists to the cockpit area. Greater resistance of the blockade is required to prevent a passenger or terrorist from forcefully opening the panel. However, in a situation of loss of pressure in the passenger compartment, it may be desirable to allow the panel to be released to prevent the panel from being violently ejected from the structure by the pressure differential. This will help you avoid damaging passengers 5 if the panel was violently ejected from the frame and fired into the passenger compartment. By allowing the panel to be released in response to the pressure differential between the flight deck and the passenger compartment, the panel will thus open providing greater security. Similarly, if the pressure differential occurs as a result of a loss of pressure in the cockpit, the panel may be decoupled from the frame, but will be retained on it, to provide a pressure equalization and avoid damage to the cabin. Crew and flight systems.

[0008] Taking the above into account, it would be desirable to offer a procedure, system and apparatus for

facilitate the unlocking of the door lock under a range or series of pressure differential circumstances.

[0009] Additional features of the description will be apparent to those skilled in the art.

after considering the following detailed descriptions of the described embodiments.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010] The detailed description particularly refers to the accompanying figures, in which:

Fig. 1 is a partial fragmented view of a part of an aircraft with a barrier that is positioned between

a cockpit or cockpit area and a passenger area;

Fig. 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view taken along line 2.2 of Fig. 1, a panel showing the barrier employing a locking mechanism;

Fig. 3 is a schematic perspective view of the locking mechanism showing a movable latch between a locked or coupled position and a locked or uncoupled position, and showing one end of a device that responds to pressure;

Fig. 4 is a schematic perspective view of the locking mechanism shown in Fig. 3, showing the latch in the unlocked or uncoupled position;

Fig. 5 is a bottom view of a cover of the locking mechanism;

Fig. 6 is an exploded perspective view of the locking mechanism shown in Figs. 1 to 5 and 7 to 16;

Fig. 7 is a bottom view of the locking mechanism shown with a box and a cover shown in line

virtual;

Fig. 8 is a view similar to that of Fig. 7, showing the latch partially moved towards the unlocked position and showing a safety pin uncoupled from a stage;

Fig. 9 is a view similar to that of Fig. 7 and 8, showing the latch in a fully unlocked position;

Fig. 10 is a bottom perspective view of the pressure response device, latch, platen and retainers removed from the box when the safety pin of the stage is disengaged and showing the retainers 40 coupled with the stage;

Fig. 11 is a view similar to that of Fig. 10 showing the stage and the safety pin when uncoupled from the stage;

Fig. 12 is a view similar to that of Figs. 9 and 10 showing the movement of the plate decreased and showing the safety pin uncoupled from the stage so that the stage can move relative to the piston;

Fig. 13 is a sectional view taken along line 13.13 of Fig. 7;

Fig. 14 is a plan view of the locking mechanism with the cover removed to show its structure;

Fig. 15 is a partial fragmentary cross-sectional view taken along line 15-15 of Fig. 14;

Fig. 16 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 16-16 in Fig. 15;

Fig. 17 is a partial fragmentary general schematic view of a locking mechanism in combination with a panel and a frame;

Fig. 18 is a general, fragmentary partial and enlarged schematic cross-sectional view taken along line 18-18 in Fig. 17;

Fig. 19 is a general schematic view, of enlarged partial fragmentary cross-section similar to that shown in Fig. 18 showing another embodiment of this general schematic illustration of the locking mechanism;

Fig. 20 is a bottom view of a cover of the locking mechanism;

Fig. 21 is a partial fragmentary, cross-sectional plan view of the locking mechanism shown in Figs.

20-23;

Fig. 22 is a side view of the assembled mechanism of Fig. 21; and Fig. 23 is a side view of the mounted mechanism as shown in Figs. 21 and 22.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION 5

[0011] Although the present description may be susceptible to embodiments in different ways, shown in the drawings, and detailed embodiments will be described herein in the understanding that the present description should be considered an example of the principles of the description and is not intended to limit the construction details of the description and the provisions of the components indicated in the following description or

10 illustrated in the drawings.

[0012] Fig. 1 shows a fragment of a frontal section of an aircraft 14 in which a part of the exterior of the aircraft 14 has been separated to illustrate a barrier 16. The barrier 16 divides an internal compartment 17 to separate an area of cockpit or cockpit 18 of a passenger area 19. As described in

15 detail below, the present description helps prevent unauthorized or unauthorized access from the passenger compartment 19 to the cockpit 18. Furthermore, the description allows the automatic opening of the barrier 16 in the case of depressurization or decompression in the cockpit 18 or in the passenger compartment 19.

[0013] Fig. 2 provides a general schematic illustration taken along line 2-2 in Fig. 1 20 showing a view from the cockpit area 18 opposite barrier 16. As generally shown in Fig. .

2, the locking mechanism 24 includes a first locking part 20 and a second receiving part 22. In the illustrative embodiment, the first locking part 20 responds to pressure differentials or pressure changes in cockpit 18 or in the area of passengers 19 as described in more detail herein.

[0014] The door or panel assembly 32 includes a frame structure 38 and a panel 40. Panel 40

it includes a free end 42 and a mobile retained end 44. Depending on the design of the panel, the panel 40 can swing internally towards the cockpit 18 or externally towards the passenger area 19 or in both directions. The movement of the panel 40 depends on the retention structure 50, like a hinge structure, which connects the retained end 44 to a receiving part 51 of the frame structure 52.

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[0015] In summary, the free end 42 of the door panel 40 moves relative to the retained end 44 in response to the retaining means 50 to move the panel relative to the receiving part 51 of the frame structure 52. It should it should be noted that panel 40 may not include a complete door structure and, instead, may be a panel retained on and as part of the door structure so that the structure

35 of the door can actually define a part of a frame relative to the panel in this example. The first and second parts 22, 22 are fixed to respective areas, generally proximal, of the frame 38 and the panel 40. The first and second parts, 20, 22 form the locking mechanism 24. It should be understood, however, that it is inside from the scope of the description, exchange the functions of the first part 20 and the second part 22 so that the first part 20 is the retention part and the second part 22 is the blocking part. Additionally, it should be understood that the locking mechanism 24 may be contained in one of the parts 20, 22, so that the structure extends from the locking mechanism 24 and engages the corresponding structure positioned opposite. For example, in a situation in which the locking mechanism 24 is in the locking mounting position mode as a first part 20 in Fig. 2. In this situation, the locking mechanism 24 may include a latch 60 or another part that extends and attaches to panel 40. In this situation there cannot be a separator component in which latch 60 is received. It is completely within the scope of the present description that the locking mechanism 24 may be a single component with a part for attaching or retaining the panel or door 40 to which a locking mechanism 24 is fixed.

[0016] As will be described in greater detail herein, the blocking mechanism 24 illustratively 50 functions to provide a resistance force that resists the separation of the panel 40 from the frame 38

correspondent. In this aspect, panel 40 is retained or locked in position until other conditions related to pressure are met. The retention force is generally illustrated as a mechanical arrangement in which a mechanism engages a corresponding area to prevent detachment of the panel 40 from the frame 38. It is also provided that the parts 20, 22 that form the locking mechanism 24 may have 55 a magnetic force so that the magnetic force resists the displacement of the door panel 40 in relation to the frame 38. As shown in the embodiment of Figs. 3-12, the first part 20 of the locking mechanism 24 includes a latch 60 which is coupled to the corresponding second receiving part 22 coupled to the panel 40, thus preventing! the detachment of the panel 40 from the frame 38.

[0017] As illustrated, the locking mechanism 24, such as the first part 20, comprises a case 62, a cover 64, a device that responds to the pressure 66 shown herein with a pneumatic cylinder 65 and a reservoir 93 configured to lock or unlock the latch 60. The cover 64 is mounted against the barrier 16 and can be supplied made of armored material to resist damage to the locking mechanism

5 due to a shot with a firearm or other destructive force. Illustratively, the latch 60 rotates around an axis 68 defined by a rod 70 that is positioned in a hole 119 and retained therein by a pressure screw 121.

[0018] However, it is within the scope of the description to provide other means for moving the latch 60. For example, the latch 60 could move laterally in relation to the case 62 between a position

extended and a retracted position. This movement could also be controlled by a piston, for example, with a piston that is mounted transversely to the illustrative pressure response device 66. The pressure response device 66 detects a decrease in pressure on one side of the panel. As will be described in more detail herein, the latch 60 can move between a locked position as shown in Fig. 3 and 15 an unlocked or loose position, shown in Fig. 4. In the unlocked position, the latch 60 it is rotated or uncoupled so that the panel 40 can move relative to the frame structure 38. It should be noted that the receiving part 22 can be in the form of a lock plate in addition to a lock cavity or other retention device of latch. The lock plate or latch cavity may be fixed to the panel to provide a secure coupling of the latch 60 therewith. Fig. 5 is a rear view of the first part 20 showing the cover 64 attached to the box 62 with screws 72.

[0019] The internal elements of the first part 20 can be seen in Figs. 6-12, where cover 64 has been removed. By way of illustration, the latch 60 is oscillatingly coupled to a first end of the deck 74. The deck 74 with a coupling 75 retained therebetween bolts 77, is configured to move and

25 articulated in relation to the pressure response device 66. As indicated above, the pressure response device 66 illustratively includes a pneumatic piston (see Fig. 13), however, it is within the scope of the description of a pressure response device 66 comprising any type of pressure operated switch, for example, a solenoid with electric power. The pneumatic cylinder 65 of the pressure response device 66 illustratively moves a latch coupling device 76 in the form of a safety pin 76 between a position in which it engages the plate 74 (see Fig. 7) and a position of decoupling (see Fig. 9) in which the plate 74 is disengaged. In the coupled position, the safety pin 76 is operatively coupled with the plate 74 to resist the movement of the plate 74. As illustrated, the pin 76 is paired or coupled to a receiving structure 78, shown in the form of an opening 78 formed in the deck 74 so that that deck 74 cannot move in relation to the response device at the pressure 66. When the deck 74 is locked In this position, latch 60 remains in its locked position, thus ensuring! the panel 40 in relation to the structure of the frame 38. Another view of the actuator 66, latch 60, safety pin 76 and stage 74 with an opening 78, can be seen in Fig. 10. In this perspective view of the internal elements of the first part 20 removed from the case 62, the safety pin 76 can be paired with the opening 78.

40

[0020] When the device responding to pressure 66 is activated to remove the safety pin 76 from a pairing relationship with the opening 78, the plate 74 is retained in its position by the retainer assembly 80. Illustratively, the assembly of retainer 80 is in the form of an inclined spring retainer that is inclined against the end of latch 82 of stage 74. Stage 74 also has grooves 84 as is

45 you can see in Figs. 6 and 8 receiving a roller 85 inclined by a spring 87 held between a retaining washer 89 and a retaining pressure screw 91 and cooperating to retain the plate 71 (and therefore the pin 60) in the locked, retained position, until the tilt force provided by retainer assembly 80 is exceeded.

[0021] Retaining washer 89 includes a post 110 that is received in a hole 112 defined by the spring

50 87. One face of the retaining washer 89 includes a groove 114. The groove 114 is generally oriented for

support the outer surface of the retaining roller 85 to improve the coupling operation of the retainer assembly 80. The pressure screw 91 is threaded and engages correspondingly to the threaded hole 116 in the case 62. The pressure screw 91 can be operated to adjust the spring preload 87 on the rollers 85. The preload is adjusted by engaging the pressure screw 91 against the spring 87 and threading the pressure screw 55 inwards 91 until a desired preload force is exerted by the spring from one now compressed in hole 116 against retaining washer 89 and the corresponding retaining roller 85.

[0022] Retaining rollers 85 are inserted axially into corresponding receptacles 118 in the box.

The receptacles are slightly elongated with respect to the hole 116 to provide some degree of

movement of the rollers 85 in relation to the plate 74. As such, when the determined retention force has been exceeded, the plate 74 generally moves axially externally towards the end of the latch 60 of the box 62 along the channel of the plate 120. During this movement, the grooves 84 on the sides of the plate 74 uncouple the rollers 85. The rollers 85 are slightly compressed against the spring 87 and are moved inwards to the receptacles 118. The rollers 85 are retained in this compressed position as a result of coupling the sides of the plate 122 while the plate 74 extends in the channel 120.

[0023] The locking mechanism 24 includes structures that function to vent on only one side of the

barrier 16. In this regard, it is not necessary to provide a ventilation passage between cockpit 18 and 10 passenger compartment 19. This solves the problem of some situations in which ventilation to the passenger compartment 19 could be harmful. Although there are situations that benefit from ventilation on both sides of the compartments 18, 19, it may be desirable to prevent interference or disturbance of the locking mechanism 24 by ventilating only on one side of the barrier 16.

[0024] More particularly, there are situations in which it is desirable to ventilate only from the side of the

cockpit 18. For example, to avoid a terrorist intrusion in the area of cockpit 18, ventilation may be desirable only on the side of the cockpit. This construction provides the function of expulsion of the block 24 but eliminates the opportunity for a terrorist to interfere with or cancel out the ventilation system that could occur when ventilating both sides of the barrier 16. The chambers 83, 86 are provided in the box 62 collectively defining 20 a deposit chamber 93 that is at least generally isolated from the ambient atmosphere of the cockpit in this example. The reservoir chamber 93 provides a reference pressure relative to and in communication with the pneumatic cylinder 65. The pneumatic cylinder 65 includes one side that communicates with the reservoir 93 and another side that communicates with the ambient atmosphere or the cockpit atmosphere. The pneumatic cylinder 66 communicates with the chambers 83, 86, the reservoir chamber 93 through openings or openings 126 that communicate with the 25 passages 90, 92. This reference volume of air in the reservoir chamber 93 does not change in pressure quickly. In contrast, an exposed or outer side 61 of the case 62 includes the outer surface 88 of the pneumatic cylinder 65. In the present example, this side 88 of the pneumatic cylinder 65 communicates with the atmosphere of the cockpit. As such, a rapid change in the pressure in the atmosphere of the cockpit or ambient will produce an effect on the external contact surface 88 of the pneumatic cylinder 65.

30

[0025] Cameras 83, 86 do not respond so quickly to pressure change. The difference in pressures and

the speed at which the pressures between the atmosphere of the cockpit and the atmosphere in the chambers 83, 86 change facilitates the operation of the locking mechanism 24. In this aspect, the slow changes of the pressure in the atmosphere of the cockpit allow the equalization of the pressure in the chambers 83, 86. As such, there is generally no movement of the safety pin 76 in relation to the deck 74. However, when there is a rapid change in the atmosphere of the cockpit, as in the case of a In the event of decompression, the pneumatic cylinder 65 operates so that the pressurized broth removes the safety pin 76 from the coupling with the opening 78 causing the decoupling of the safety pin 76 of the plate 74. As a result, the decoupling of the plate 74 of the clamping force of the safety pin 76 facilitates the displacement of the bolt assembly 60, 75, 40 allowing the disengagement of the locking mechanism 24 relative to the corresponding surface. As a result, the door or panel can be opened during said decompression event. In the present example, the door or panel will open inward toward the cockpit area to prevent the panel from detaching from the barrier 16 thus avoiding! more damage to the crew of the cockpit, equipment and structures.

[0026] Another view of the status of the internal elements of the lock 24 when the safety pin 76 is

removed from a pairing relationship with the opening 78 can be seen in Fig. 11. Illustratively, the safety pin 76 extends to and engages the opening 78, so that the deck 74 can move 101 (see Fig. 12 ) in relation to the actuator 66 without being locked by the safety pin 76.

[0027] A retainer assembly 80 is illustratively configured to retain the deck 74 until it is

make a predetermined amount of pressure or force on the latch 60, at which time the tilt force of the retainers 80 is exceeded by the forces transmitted through the latch 60 that urge the deck 74 to move relative to the actuator 65. This predetermined amount of pressure could be, for example, the amount of pressure change in a predetermined period of time, deemed appropriate for releasing the panel 40 from the frame structure 38. For example, the pneumatic cylinder 66 can be configured to resist a load of 300 joules. When a pressure broth of 3.44KPa (0.5 psi) is detected in 0.004 s (4 ms). After satisfying these parameters, the latch 66 is released. This may be a pressure in which it is desired that the panel 40 be released from the frame structure 38 to avoid damage, or it may be a pressure in which it is desired that the panel 40 can be opened or moved in relation to the structure of the frame 38 by an operator as an auxiliary

Of flight. For example, spring 87 may be formed to provide a preloaded release load range. For example, the spring could be manufactured for a release load of 11.3 to 22.6 kg (25 to 50 pounds), another spring could be manufactured for a release load of 22.6 to 36.3 kg (50 to 80 pounds) and another spring could be manufactured for a release load of 36.3 to 49.9 kg (80 to 110 pounds). The above ranges are merely illustrative and are not intended to limit the application in any way. On the contrary, other ranges including release charges that are below or above those indicated herein may also be applicable depending on the situation.

[0028] Returning to the sectional view shown in Fig. 13, it can be seen that the response device to the

10 pressure, in the form of a pneumatic piston / actuator 65, operates in the manner described. The box 62 generally defines a first chamber 83 and a second chamber 86 on each side of the pneumatic cylinder 65, collectively the reservoir chamber 93. The pneumatic cylinder 65 and the reservoir 93 generally define the pressure response device 66 of The present realization. Cameras 83, 86 include corresponding subchambers 83x, 83y, and 86x and 86y. The subchambers communicate through channels 83z and 86z respectively. Cover 64 houses 15 chambers 83, 86 and piston / actuator 65 at one end. A first side 88 of the pressure response device 66 or the external contact surface 88 is configured to be in contact with the environment 98 such as the cockpit or the atmosphere. The chambers 83, 86 can be filled with fluid, which are illustratively filled with air. The chambers 83, 86 connect with the ducts 90, 92 respectively, where the fluid (ie, the air) comes into contact with or communicates with the operating surface 94 of the piston / actuator 65. Illustratively, the lock position 20 shown in Fig. 13 is achieved when the difference (if any) between the environmental pressure and the fluid pressure inside the chambers 83, 86 (and therefore within the ducts 90, 92) is such that the surface of operation 94 remains in contact with a stopper 96 and the safety pin 76 is releasably paired with the opening 78. The pneumatic cylinder 65 as illustrated, maintains the safety pin 76 in an outwardly oriented orientation as a result of retaining the spring 105 by the cover 107 25 and the seal 109 retained by the screws 111. In other words, the safety pin 76 is inclined in an orientation in which they extend through the corresponding opening 78 in l a plate 74. The pneumatic cylinder 65 is retained in the housing 62 by means of threaded pressure screws 113 that extend through the threaded hole 115 correspondingly that couples a flat projection 117 over the housing 62.

[0029] When there is a pressure drop in the ambient atmosphere or in the environment 98, the air

captured in the pressure response device or the environmental chamber 102 is removed or evacuated from the chamber and passes through the filter 100 out of the contact surface 88 of the piston / actuator 65 at a speed determined by the characteristics of the filter 100 The filter 100 is provided to prevent the passage of particles, dust or other objects that could interfere with the operation of the actuator 66. The filter essentially provides a conduit 35 with a plurality of holes through it to allow a general air flow free through it. However, as indicated, the filter 100 prevents or at least reduces the passage of particles and other materials that could have the potential to follow the actuator 66. It is within the scope of the present application to include merely one step and not a filter in situations where filtering may not be necessary. As the air passes from chamber 102 to environment 98, the pressure differential between chambers 83, 86 (and therefore within 40 of ducts 90, 92), collectively the reservoir chamber 93 and the environmental chamber 102, increase. This pressure differential causes the operating surface 94 of the piston diaphragm or head 103 of the piston / actuator 65 to move away from the stopper 96, thereby moving the safety pin 74 out of the pairing coupling with the opening 78.

[0030] As shown, the diaphragm or piston head 103 is loaded into chamber 102. The pin

safety 76 is connected to the piston head 103 and travels with the movement of the piston head 103. The piston head 103 may be sealed inside the chamber 102, but may somehow be loose inside the chamber. The degree of sealing depends on the degree of response required by the locking mechanism. For more sensitive applications, in which a faster release may be required, the reservoir 93 can be sealed from the environmental chamber 102 by sealing the cover 64 to the case 62 and providing a seal between the piston 103 and the chamber 102. The seal between the piston 103 and the chamber would be a sliding seal to allow the movement of the piston 103 inside the chamber. However, many decompression event situations may have a change in pressure so fast and significant that the seal between the piston 103 and the chamber 102 may not be necessary.

55

[0031] With reference to Figs. 17 to 19, a general schematic illustration of the mechanism of

lock 24a described above. The purpose of this general schematic illustration is to show general concepts related to the operation of the locking mechanism 24a. Fig. 17 is similar to Fig. 2 as it shows a door or panel 40 retained in relation to the frame 38. A structure is also provided.

retention as a hinge 50. The locking mechanism 24a is similar to that shown in Figs. 4 to 16, since the locking mechanism 24a includes a case 62a, a latch 60a and a pressure response device 66a. The locking mechanism 24a as shown in Figs. 17 to 19 is fixed to the wall or frame 38. With reference to Figs. 3 to 9, 14, 16, 20 and 21, the locking mechanism 24, 24a, 24c is fixed to the frame 38 using 5 screws that extend through the mounting holes 121, 121c. The screws and mounting holes 121 in the case 62 is just an example of ways to fix the lock to the barrier 16.

[0032] With reference to Fig. 18, a general schematic cross-sectional view taken along 18-18 is illustrated in Fig. 17. In this view, latch 60a is shown schematically generally by coupling the panel.

10 40. The locking mechanism 24a includes the housing 62a which includes the pneumatic cylinder 66a. As described above, the pneumatic cylinder may have other shapes, but generally the cylinder is a form of a pressure response device 66, 66a disposed in the body of the lock or case 62a. As illustrated schematically, the pressure response device 66a includes a reservoir or chamber part 93a and an environmental chamber part 102a. The environmental part or chamber 102a communicates through an opening 134a, or a plurality of openings the same as with the filter 100, with the ambient atmosphere on the side of the barrier 16 to which the lock is connected 24. The chamber Deposit 93a communicates with the pressure response device 66a through an opening 138a or a plurality of openings.

[0033] A diaphragm or piston 140 or other movable structure is operatively retained in the pressure response device fixed through a connection 76a, such as bolt 76 shown in Fig. 6 to couple the

60th latch. The connection 76a may engage the latch or may actually be connected to the latch to remove the latch 60a in relation to the frame 38. In this aspect, the connection 76a broadly, generally engages or acts on the latch 60a to retain the latch in a retained position to keep the panel closed. After activation or activation of diaphragm 140, connection 76a is removed or operated on latch 60a to decouple or release latch 60a.

[0034] In circumstances where the ambient pressure, P1 is generally equal to the pressure, P2, in the reservoir chamber 93a, there is no force or action on the diaphragm 140 and the connection 76a. As such, latch 60a remains in engagement with frame 38. When there is a change in pressures P1, P2, so that P1

30 falls rapidly in relation to P2, the change in pressure is a result of the environmental chamber 102 communicating through the hole 134a with the ambient atmosphere through a change or force on the diaphragm 140 that exceeds the normalizing and resistant pressure force P2 in the deposit chamber 93a. It should be noted that the position of the locking mechanism 24 could be reversed so that the locking mechanism 24 is retained on the panel 40 and the latch is coupled to the frame 38. A retaining mechanism 35 80 as shown in Fig. 6 and in other figures of this description, it can also be used to provide resistance to accidental changes in the ambient atmosphere P1, which could initiate an unlocking event.

[0035] With reference to Fig. 19, another embodiment of the pressure response device 66b is shown in general schematic form. In this embodiment, many of the same structures are similar to those

40 shown in Fig. 18. However, the external deposit chamber 93b is provided to provide an atmosphere volume at a second pressure P2. The chamber 93b communicates with the pressure response device through the hole 134b. In this embodiment, the deposit chamber 93b is attached to the hole 134b by a hose or tube 141.

[0036] This embodiment allows a lock 24b, which can vent on both sides of the barrier 16, to be

ventilated on one side of the barrier. In this regard, the locks have been developed to ventilate the passenger compartment and cockpit. This requires that the openings to the related chambers be positioned on each side of the barrier 16. As indicated earlier in this application, there are situations in which it may not be desirable to provide ventilation on both sides. As such, the independent reservoir 93b of the embodiment as shown in Fig. 19 can be connected to the hole 134b which can normally be vented to the passenger compartment. This embodiment allows the retrofitting of the existing blockages that ventilate on both sides of the barrier and also allows more options when providing and producing locking mechanisms.

55 [0037] Returning now to Figs. 20 to 23, another embodiment of the locking mechanism 20c is described. With

Referring to Fig. 20, the locking mechanism 20c includes a housing 62c, a pressure response device 66c and a latch 60c. With reference to the partial fragmentary cross-sectional view of Fig. 21, the pneumatic cylinder 65c is retained in the chamber 102c defined by the box 62c. A deposit chamber 93c communicates with the environmental chamber 102c through conduit 138c. As shown in Fig. 20, holes 134c are provided in the box

62c and communicate with the environmental chamber 102c. The environmental chamber 102c communicates with the filter or porous side 88c of the pneumatic cylinder 65c. The reservoir chamber 93c communicates through the conduit 138c with the air chamber 65c generally on the opposite side of a diaphragm or piston 140c. The cover 64c is held in place on the open ends of the chambers 102c, 93c by screws 72c and a seal 150.

5

[0038] Latch 60c is retained in the channel of latch 120c. A flange 152 is positioned in the channel 120c to which an arm 154 of the latch 60c is connected by a socket 70c. The bushing 70c extends through a hole 155 in the latch 60c, the hole 156 formed in the flange 152 and a corresponding part of the hole formed in a side wall 160 of the channel 120c. A rivet 157 extends through the socket 70c to

10 mobilely retain the latch 60c in the channel 120c. An opposite side wall 162 and base 164 define channel 120c. The latch 60c is pivoting in and out of the channel 120c over the socket 70c.

[0039] A hole or receptacle 118c is formed in a part of the latch 60c to receive the components of the retainer assembly 80c. Similar to retainer assembly 80 described above, retainer assembly 80c

15 includes a roller 85c which is held captively in the receptacle 118c, a washer 89c, spring 87c and adjusting screw 91c which is threadedly engaged with the corresponding part of the receptacle 118c. Instead of acting directly on a component of the latch 60c as shown in Fig. 6, the retainer assembly 80c provides an inclination force against a retainer anchor 168 mounted on the base 164 by means of screws 170.

20 [0040] With reference to Figs. 20, 21 and 23, the pneumatic cylinder 65c includes a bolt 76c which is

operatively held in the pneumatic cylinder 66c, connected to the piston 140 and extends externally to the corresponding opening 78c in the latch 60c. The opening 78c does not need to extend completely through the corresponding part of the latch 60c, but can be provided in the form of a slot to receive the bolt 76c.

[0041] In the locked position, latch 60c is generally flush with the top 61 of the case

62c. An extended finger 174 of latch 60c extends outwardly away from the edge of the box to couple a corresponding panel or other structure. During a decompression activation or event a change in the pressure on the side (61) of the locking mechanism 24c in front of the relevant compartment (for example, the cockpit) will cause a change in the pressure in the environmental chamber 102c that is communicated to through openings 134c. This change in 30 will affect the pneumatic cylinder 65c, held in place in the chamber 102c by a screw 176 causing the bolt 76c to be removed to the air chamber 65c. The bolt 76c will move only if the pressure differential in the environmental chamber 102c is higher enough than the pressure in the reservoir chamber 93c and sufficient to overcome the tilt force of the spring 105c. Assuming there is a significant pressure differential, bolt 76c is disengaged from opening 78c. The decoupling of the bolt 76c from the opening 78c allows the rotation or rotation of the latch finger 174c away from the corresponding surface. Generally, the latch 60c does not move unless the force acting on the panel 40 to which it is related is sufficient to overcome the retention force provided by the retention mechanism 80c.

[0042] Assuming that the force on the panel is sufficient, that transferred from the panel through the finger

40 174 will cause roller 85c to move relative to anchor 168 causing compression in spring 87c. When the force applied to the finger 174c exceeds the force of the spring 87c on the roller 85c, the roller 85c decouples the anchor 168 thus allowing! the free movement of the latch 60c and the decoupling of the panel to which the locking mechanism is fixed.

[0043] When in use, the described locking mechanism provides a blocking procedure or

retention of a door or panel in a closed position against the forces applied to them. The locking mechanism includes structures that work to retain the panel in the closed or locked position subject to decoupling in response to a pressure differential. However, the pressure differential is detected only on one side of a barrier to which the blockage is fixed. During a decompression event, the pressure on the other side of the barrier generally affects little or nothing to the operation of the locking mechanism. The pressure differential detection on a single side of the barrier is achieved by including the pneumatic cylinder 66b or other pressure detection device, including an electrical, mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic pressure detection device or any other suitable device. Unlike other locking mechanisms that may require ventilation on both sides of a barrier, the present description includes a reservoir that maintains a generally constant pressure relative to the environment. This deposit or deposit chamber does not change in response to a rapid change in environmental pressure.

[0044] The locking mechanism is provided including a latch housed in the box thereof. He

Pneumatic cylinder communicates with a deposit chamber and is operatively coupled with the latch. He

latch is retained in a locked position when the ambient pressure, P1, is generally equal to the pressure of the reservoir P2. After a sudden change in the environmental pressure P1, the latch is disengaged. A retention mechanism can be provided to prevent uncoupling of the latch that results from accidental or abnormal pressure changes. When the forces applied to the panel with which the locking mechanism is related are sufficiently greater than the retention force of the retention mechanism, the panel will move relative to the corresponding frame.

[0045] Although the embodiments of the description are shown and described, it is anticipated that those experts

in the art they can develop various modifications and equivalents without departing from the scope of description 10 as listed in the following claims.

Claims (15)

1. Locking mechanism (24) for releasably retaining a first structure (40) relative to a second structure (48), the locking mechanism comprising: 5 a box (62) that connects to at least a first structure (38) and a second structure (40); a latch (60) releasably arranged in the box; a part of a latch adjacent to a part of the other first structure and a second structure to prevent displacement of the first structure of a second structure; 10 a pressure response device (66) to detect a decrease in pressure on one side of the panel (40); a latch coupling device (76) coupled to the pressure response device and which can be moved in response to the activation of the pressure response device; and a receiver structure (78) on the latch to engage at least a part of the latch coupling device to prevent the moveable movement of the latch before activation of the pressure response device. fifteen 2. Locking mechanism of claim 1, wherein the latch (60) is pivotally retained in the box. 3. Locking mechanism of claim 1, wherein the pressure response device (66) 20 is disposed in the box. 4. Locking mechanism of claim 1, the pressure response device (66) which further comprises a pneumatic cylinder (65) and a reservoir (93), the pneumatic cylinder with a first side (88) communicating with the ambient atmosphere on the side of a panel (40) to which the locking mechanism is fixed, and a The second side that communicates with the reservoir (93), the first side (88) being exposed to rapid changes in pressure in the ambient atmosphere and the second side being generally isolated from rapid changes in pressure in the ambient atmosphere. 5. Locking mechanism of claim 1, wherein the pressure response device (66a) 30 includes a pressure response diaphragm (140) operatively retained in a response chamber to the pressure (102a), the chamber including a first opening (134a) that communicates with a first volume and a second opening (138a) that communicates with a second volume, a pressure differential between the first volume and the second volume acting on the pressure response diaphragm (140) in the chamber. 35 6. Locking mechanism of claim 5 further comprising the pressure of the first volume that It is defined by the ambient atmosphere and the pressure of the second volume that is defined by a tank (93a) that communicates with the pressure response chamber (102a) in which the tank is generally isolated from the ambient atmosphere. 40 7. Locking mechanism of claim 1, wherein the pressure response device (66) It includes a pneumatic piston (140c), operatively retained in a pressure response chamber, the pressure response chamber including a first opening communicating with a first volume (102c) having a first pressure and a second opening ( 138c) that communicates with a second volume (93c) having a second pressure, a pressure differential between the first volume and the second volume operating the piston in the chamber. 8. Locking mechanism of claim 1, wherein the pressure response device (66) includes an electric pressure sensing device and a mobile device coupled with the electric pressure sensing device, the electric sensing device of pressure communicating with a first volume that 50 has a first pressure and a second volume that has a second pressure. 9. Locking mechanism of claim 1, further comprising a retention mechanism (80) that provides a retention force to retain the latch (60) in a locked position before a predetermined retention force is exceeded. 55 10. Locking mechanism (24) for releasably retaining a panel (40) relative to a frame (38), the locking mechanism comprising: a lock box (62) that can be fixed to at least one panel and a frame; a latch (60) arranged in the lock box; a part of the latch extending from the lock box so that it is adjacent to a part of the panel and a frame to prevent displacement of a panel from a frame; a stage (74) movably arranged on the lock box and operatively connected to the latch; 5 a pressure response device (66) that responds to at least one decrease in pressure on the side of the panel to which the locking device is attached; a bolt coupling bolt (76) operatively connected to the pressure response device, the bolt coupling bolt being movable in response to the activation of the pressure response device; and means (80) for retaining the stage to engage at least a part of the bolt coupling bolt 10 to prevent the stage from moving before the activation of the pressure response device. 11. Locking mechanism of claim 10, wherein the pressure response device (66) includes means for detecting at least a first pressure and a pressure reservoir (93) defining a second pressure, generally isolated from the first pressure, the pressure response device activating in 15 response to a differential between a first pressure and a second pressure. 12. Locking mechanism of claim 10, wherein the pressure response device is arranged in the lock box (62). 20 13. Locking mechanism of claim 10, wherein at least a part of the device for Pressure response (66) is separated from the box and communicates with the box. 14. Locking mechanism of claim 10, the pressure response device furthermore It comprises a pneumatic cylinder (65) and a tank (93), the pneumatic cylinder with a first side (88) which is 25 communicates with the ambient atmosphere on the side of a panel to which the locking mechanism is fixed, and a second side that communicates with the deposit, the first side (88) being exposed to rapid changes in pressure in the ambient atmosphere and deposit being generally isolated from rapid changes in pressure in the ambient atmosphere. 30 15. Locking mechanism of claim 10, wherein the pressure response device (66) it includes a pneumatic piston (140c), operatively retained in a piston chamber, the piston chamber including a first opening that communicates with a first volume having a first pressure and a second opening communicating with a second volume having a second pressure, a pressure differential between the first volume and the second volume operating the piston in the chamber. 35 16. Locking mechanism of claim 10, wherein the pressure response device (66) includes a pressure response diaphragm (140) operatively retained in a pressure response chamber, the chamber including a first opening that communicates with a first volume and a second opening that communicates with a second volume, a pressure differential between the first volume and the second 40 volume acting on the pressure response diaphragm in the chamber. 17. Locking mechanism of claim 10, wherein the pressure response device (66) includes an electric pressure sensing device and a mobile device coupled with the electric pressure sensing device, the electric sensing device of pressure communicating with a first volume that 45 has a first pressure and a second volume that has a second pressure. 18. Locking mechanism of claim 10 further comprising a retention mechanism (80) that provides a retention force on the latch. 50 19. Procedure to control in a controlled way a panel (40) relative to a frame (38), the blocking procedure responding to a pressure differential detected on one side of a panel to which the blocking mechanism is fixed, the procedure comprising the steps of: providing a locking mechanism (24) operatively associated with a panel; 55 providing a latch (60) releasably disposed in the locking mechanism, the latch being operatively associated with a panel; providing a pressure response device (66) operatively coupled to the latch, the pressure response device communicating with the ambient atmosphere; provide a tank (93) that communicates with the pressure response device, the tank being generally isolated from the ambient atmosphere; retain the latch (60) in engagement with a panel; detect the pressure on one side of the panel; activate the pressure response device (66) in response to a pressure differential between the reservoir and the ambient atmosphere; decouple the latch (60) of a panel after the development of a pressure differential of a predetermined degree; and move a panel relative to a frame after decoupling the latch on a panel. 20. Locking mechanism (24) for releasably retaining a panel (40), the locking mechanism 10 comprising: a pressure response device (66) arranged in a box (62) and communicating with the ambient atmosphere; a tank (93) generally isolated from the ambient atmosphere and communicating with the pressure response device 15; a latch (60) releasably disposed in the box and operatively coupled with the pressure response device; and the pressure response device (66) releasing the latch after detecting a pressure differential between the ambient atmosphere and the reservoir.